The Howard Johnson's name evokes a sense of Americana, conjuring images of roadside restaurants and family vacations of yesteryear. While the iconic orange roof is a less common sight these days, the legacy of Howard Johnson's hotels continues, albeit in a transformed landscape. This article explores the history of Howard Johnson hotels in New York, their current presence, and answers some frequently asked questions surrounding this once-ubiquitous brand.
What Howard Johnson Hotels Still Exist in New York?
Unfortunately, the days of numerous Howard Johnson's hotels gracing the New York landscape are long gone. The brand underwent significant changes and consolidation over the years. Currently, there aren't any hotels operating under the Howard Johnson's name in New York City or the state that directly carry on the historical legacy of the brand. While you might find independently owned motels or hotels using similar names, they aren't officially affiliated with the larger franchise. The brand's presence has largely shifted to international locations and smaller, independently operated establishments.
Are there any Howard Johnson restaurants left in New York?
Similar to the hotels, the iconic Howard Johnson's restaurants with their famed 28 flavors of ice cream are largely a thing of the past in New York. The restaurant chain faced similar challenges to the hotel business, leading to closures and a reduction in overall presence. Finding a remaining Howard Johnson's restaurant in the state would be exceptionally difficult, if not impossible.
Where were the original Howard Johnson's hotels located in New York?
The precise locations of every Howard Johnson's hotel that once operated in New York would require extensive historical research. However, like other states, they tended to be strategically situated along major highways and in areas with high tourist traffic, catering to the needs of motorists traveling across the state. Many would have been found near popular attractions or close to major transportation hubs. Unfortunately, detailed records of every location aren't readily available online.
What happened to the Howard Johnson's hotel chain?
The decline of Howard Johnson's hotels was a complex process involving several factors. Increased competition from larger hotel chains, changing consumer preferences, and evolving business strategies all played a role. The brand's ownership changed hands multiple times, and eventually, the franchise model underwent significant restructuring. This led to many locations being closed or rebranded under different names. The story of Howard Johnson's serves as a cautionary tale of how even iconic brands can struggle to adapt to shifting market forces.
Are there any plans to revive the Howard Johnson's brand in New York?
Currently, there are no publicly announced plans to bring the classic Howard Johnson's hotels back to New York. While the brand still exists internationally and might see sporadic revitalization attempts, there's no significant movement towards a major return to the New York area. The focus seems to be more on selective franchising rather than widespread expansion.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the past and present state of Howard Johnson hotels in New York. While nostalgia for the brand persists, the reality is that the classic Howard Johnson experience is largely a memory. However, the story of its rise and fall offers a fascinating case study in the dynamics of the hospitality industry.
